Ysolda Review and Giveaway!

Dropped off by a mystery person who disappeared as quickly as she appeared. Luckily, there was an inscription.

What a most lovely surprise from the even lovelier Ysolda Teague! I would go so far as to say this book is indispensable for knitters.You will find the patterns you're accustomed to seeing from Ysolda--fashion forward, technically sound, and well written with a touch of whimsy. However, the meat and potatoes of this book is the educational first chapter entitled "Tools for Successful Sweaters".

Every word and picture in this chapter lends credence to the title. The chapter is broken into sections: selecting a yarn, swatching, taking measurements, choosing a size, creating a perfect fit, and blocking. Each section offers a wealth of information, accessible for beginners and relevant even for intermediate to advanced knitters. Tips are peppered throughout, from choosing the best yarn for intarsia work to measuring your body accurately to using dressmaking techniques to accommodate fuller bust sizes.

You'll find Classic Elite yarn modeled by the gorgeous Amanda Jarvis in the Angostura Vest. The introduction to the pattern has comprehensive construction and fitting notes, and the pattern is sized from a 30 inch bust up to a 60 inch one. The vest is knit in Chesapeake from the Verde Collection in the colorway Mephisto, a beautiful blue that almost reminds me of one of my favorite crayons, Cornflower Blue, only darker.

*Ysolda Teague and her fabulous team are collaborating with us on a giveaway! One lucky knitter will receive an autographed copy of Little Red in the City, a limited edition Little Red project bag, and enough Chesapeake to complete their very own Angostura vest! Simply head over to her blog, leave a comment on Ysolda's blog post saying how you would wear/style your own Angostura before August 15th, and then cross your fingers.

45 comments:

From what I have seen I absolutely LOVE it. I am tall for a female so any time I see a book that shows how to make things fit for me it is a WIN. I am so looking forward to getting a better look at this book.

The Angostura is a great vest because although it is simple and a classic shape, the little cable twists in unexpected places make it unique. I'd wear the vest with a white shirt and khakis in the fall. The vest would make a standard uniform in my wardrobe special.

Love the vest details and the fact that it is sized for big chests. Those of us with big chests want to knit garments with style and detail too. Looks like this book has it all. If I don't win, I'll have to buy it. I would use this vest to sharpen my knitting skills and wear with numberous skirt options.